Multifunctional CD‐MOF Hybrid Systems: Integrating Drug Delivery, Photothermal Therapy, and Nanozyme Applications

Abstract

A multifunctional hybrid platform is developed by integrating gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and a lipid bilayer into cyclodextrin‐based metal‐organic frameworks (CD‐MOFs), with the objective of combining therapeutic and catalytic functionalities in a single system. The central hypothesis is that sequential surface engineering would enhance aqueous stability, enable responsive photothermal behavior, and allow for the controlled release of hydrophobic active compounds. To realize this, CD‐MOFs are first modified with a fluorocarbon layer to improve colloidal stability and encapsulation efficiency. Subsequently, a DPPC lipid bilayer is introduced to regulate release kinetics and further stabilize the particles. The incorporation of AuNPs endowed the hybrid with near‐infrared (NIR)‐responsive photothermal activity and peroxidase‐like catalytic behavior. Experimental data confirmed the efficient loading of compounds, improved structure retention under aqueous conditions, and rapid thermal response under NIR exposure. Furthermore, the hybrid structure exhibited catalytic activity across a broad pH range, maintaining its function even under conditions unfavorable to natural enzymes. These combined features demonstrate the potential of this modular CD‐MOF‐based architecture as an integrated therapeutic and catalytic platform. Its rational design and facile fabrication underscore its suitability for future applications in targeted therapy, controlled release systems, and bioinspired catalysis.